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Flash Flood — Nelson, VA

May 13, 2025

A slow moving closed upper level low originating from the Gulf of America brought anomalous moisture into the area. A long duration period of rain ensued, with rain rates exceeding two inches an hour during the afternoon and evening of May 13th. The slow moving storms coupled with training led to localized rainfall totals of four to eight inches across the Blue Ridge, with lesser amounts of two to four inches along and west of I-95. Flooding lingered into the morning hours of May 14th.

Source: NOAA National Weather Service Storm Events Database (event 1245830). Narrative written by NWS staff at the time of the event.

Flood Risk Context for Nelson, VA

This event is one of many recorded floods in Nelson County. See the full FEMA flood zone map, NFIP claim totals, and disaster history for the area.

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More Flood Stories

Flash Flood

Nelson, VA · May 13, 2025

A slow moving closed upper level low originating from the Gulf of America brought anomalous moisture into the area. A long duration period of rain ensued, with rain rates exceeding two inches an hour during the afternoon and evening of May 13th.

Read the full account →
Flood

Nelson, VA · May 13, 2025

A slow moving closed upper level low originating from the Gulf of America brought anomalous moisture into the area. A long duration period of rain ensued, with rain rates exceeding two inches an hour during the afternoon and evening of May 13th.

Read the full account →
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